Telecom
MTN Foundation Rallies NDLEA, UNODC to Combat Substance Abuse @ Multi-Stakeholder Conference

In a collaborative effort to combat substance abuse through prevention, MTN Foundation, NDLEA, and UNODC came together for a multi-stakeholder conference in Abuja. The event saw key government officials and experts unite to discuss some evidence-based strategies against drug abuse among Nigerian youths.

L-R: Secretary, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Shadrach Usman Haruna; Teacher, PTA/NADP International College, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Jonah Basil-Eneh; Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya; Students, PTA/NADP International College, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Abdul Isa Salihu, Peace Monday and Augusta Opane Okyuwa; National Programme Officer, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Folusho Ajayi Adelekan and Associate Professor, Theatre Arts, University of Abuja at the ASAP quiz competition grand finale where PTA/NADP International College, Lafia emerged winners in Abuja on June 23, 2023.
This conference follows the recent Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) stakeholder conference hosted by MTN Foundation in Lagos. So far, the initiative has successfully engaged 86,400 students and 1,440 teachers from 144 public secondary schools across 12 states, along with advocacy walks in Abuja, Lagos, and Rivers state. Additionally, a 24/7 toll-free psycho-social support helpline for affected youth was launched in partnership with the NDLEA. These efforts highlight the growing awareness and commitment to fighting substance abuse among youths in the country.
Senator George Akume, representing the Federal Government, emphasised the administration’s support for these collaborative efforts. He highlighted that the fight against drug abuse requires a unified approach and praised the ongoing initiatives for their impact.
Prince Julius Adelusi Adeluyi, Chairman of MTN Foundation, reinforced the foundation’s commitment to the cause. “Our mission is to reduce the rate of first-time substance abuse among young Nigerians. The power of collective action cannot be overstated,” he remarked.
Brig Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa, Chairman of NDLEA, called for substantial investments in preventive measures and early detection, stating, “The Drug Integrity Test initiative aims to establish an anti-drug culture in Nigeria. It targets students, workers, and prospective couples to prevent drug use and enable early intervention, treatment, and rehabilitation.”
Dr. Oliver Stolpe, outgoing UNODC Country Representative, emphasised the importance of evidence-based prevention programs and community involvement in tackling the drug abuse problem.
The event, held at the State House in Abuja, also highlighted the importance of grassroot initiatives and tailored interventions to meet specific community needs. It also highlighted how fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility within local communities can yield more impactful and sustainable outcomes.
MTN Foundation remains committed to continuing this fight against substance abuse, aligning with the strategies and support outlined by key stakeholders at the conference. The foundation is dedicated to reducing drug abuse among Nigerian youth, and it will continue to support collaborative efforts to create a healthier, drug-free future for the country.
Telecom
Nigeria to Receive $3Bn Telecoms Infrastructure in June – Minister

Nigeria is set to receive telecommunications equipment and fibre optic infrastructure worth $3 billion in June 2025, according to Bosun Tijani, minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
Speaking during a panel session at the Nigeria Development Update (NDU) organised by the World Bank, Tijani revealed that the equipment valued at $1 billion was expected to arrive in the country by mid-2025.
He added that an additional $2 billion worth of fibre optic cables would soon be delivered to boost Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure.
According to him, the initiative aims to significantly enhance communication services across the country and bridge the connectivity gap.
Tijani also noted that a pilot phase targeting over 20 million Nigerians who currently lack access to any form of telecommunications would soon be launched.
The Nigeria Development Update (NDU) is a bi-annual World Bank report that assesses the country’s recent economic and social developments, policy directions, and provides recommendations to address emerging challenges.
Telecom
Legend Internet Debuts Nigeria’s First Fibre-to-the-room Service

Legend Internet Plc has launched FTTR by Legend — Nigeria’s first Fibre-to-the-Room (FTTR) service, redefining the standard for broadband connectivity across homes and businesses.
“Being listed on NGX is just the beginning, With FTTR by Legend, we are building the infrastructure of the future, today — not just to improve connectivity, but to transform how people live, work, and create”, said Aisha Abdulaziz, CEO of Legend Internet Plc.
This groundbreaking innovation was deployed by Legend, with strategic technology support from global telecommunications leader- Huawei. The result is a seamless digital experience that meets the demands of modern living.
The launch of FTTR follows the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Legend Internet and Huawei Technologies.
“Our collaboration with Huawei reflects our commitment to global standards and local innovation. Unlike traditional broadband that stops at the router, FTTR by Legend brings pure fibre into every room, offering zero lag, full-house coverage, and the performance needed for smart homes, remote work, creators, and tech-forward enterprises.
The collaboration is aimed at accelerating broadband infrastructure development, enhancing local capacity, and positioning Nigeria as a digital leader in Africa. Huawei brings decades of R&D in fibre optic and smart home technology to support Legend in deploying this state-of-the-art infrastructure.
Coming on the heels of its recent listing on the Nigerian Exchange Limited(NGX), Legend Internet PLC shows no signs of slowing down. The company is celebrating its public debut with a landmark product — one that delivers ultra-high-speed fibre into every room of a building, enabling uninterrupted, gigabit-speed internet at all times.
Legend Internet’s entry into fibre-to-the-room solutions is part of a broader ambition to close the digital divide in Nigeria. While FTTR by Legend is currently being offered exclusively to high-end residences, the company plans to scale and democratize access through complementary solutions over time. This aligns with Legend’s dual-market approach.
In broadband, Legend leverages fibre optics to deliver ultra-high-speed internet directly to consumers, with a focus on reliability, speed, and innovation. In fintech, the company is expanding last-mile payment infrastructure and delivering secure, scalable tools including wallets, merchant solutions, and digital financial platforms for everyday use.
Legend’s mission is clear: to power Nigeria’s digital future — through cutting-edge technology, bold thinking, and local-first execution.
Telecom
NASENI Commends President Tinubu’s Push for Local Industry Growth

National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Nigeria First Policy,” describing it as a bold step toward accelerating Nigeria’s industrial revolution and economic growth.
In a statement issued on Sunday, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, commended the policy’s prioritization of locally made goods and indigenous solutions in government procurement.
He said the directive would empower local entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and technology innovators by giving them the necessary support to thrive.
“With Mr. President’s directive to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to revise and enforce guidelines in favor of local suppliers, we anticipate a significant increase in patronage of Nigerian-made products,” Mr. Halilu said.
“Government is a major buyer of goods and services, and this move will translate into increased demand across key sectors.”
Describing the policy as “forward-thinking and revolutionary,” Mr. Halilu noted that NASENI has long championed local content through its own initiatives.
He highlighted products developed by the agency, ranging from Nigerian-assembled vehicles and energy systems to smart irrigation tools and electronic devices, as evidence of the quality and competitiveness of local manufacturing.
He further referenced NASENI’s ongoing Made-in-Nigeria Strategic Focus Group meetings held across the country, aimed at driving awareness and understanding of consumer attitudes toward local products.
These forums bring together experts, regulators, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and civil society actors to identify challenges and promote solutions for increasing local patronage.
“We are determined to be at the forefront of implementing the President’s vision,” Mr. Halilu stated. “But this is also a call to action for local producers.
“It is not enough to enjoy policy support, quality and standards must never be compromised.
“We must deliver products that compete favourably with imports and meet the needs of Nigerian consumers.”
NASENI, mandated to develop Nigeria’s science and engineering infrastructure, has been engaging stakeholders across states including Katsina, Lagos, Anambra, Delta, Kano, Kaduna, and Ogun to boost innovation, address manufacturing challenges, and encourage the adoption of homegrown solutions.
President Tinubu’s “Nigeria First Policy” directs the BPP to implement procurement reforms that prioritize local content and maintain a register of qualified Nigerian manufacturers and service providers.
Mr. Halilu concluded by affirming NASENI’s readiness to lead the charge: “We have seen the capacity and competence of our local manufacturers.
“They are ready. With the right support, we can achieve true industrialization powered by Nigerian solutions.”
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